David Robertson
Technology Response Ltd.

Monday, July 5th
The Curious Life and Complex Legacy
of Alec Reeves
 - by David Robertson
(Technology Response Ltd.)

Alec Reeves was one of the 20th century's greatest scientists and engineers.  He was also an enigma. 

Often called 'father of the digital age', he invented Pulse Code Modulation - the basis for today's pervasive digital technology - and later, working at Standard Telecommunication Laboratories in Harlow, led the team that pioneered optical fibres. Yet Reeves is virtually unknown to the public. 

A committed pacifist, he devised the most accurate bomb-aiming device of WW2, saving the Allies from early defeat.  A highly practical engineer, Reeves also dabbled in spiritualism, claiming his work was ‘guided’ by the great 19th Century experimentalist Michael Faraday.   

Alec Reeves:

Science writer/producer David Robertson explored the complexities surrounding the man and his legacy.